Thursday 22 October 2020

FREQUENCY OF HANDICAP INDEX UPDATE -- DAY 4


The handicap calculation will take place every night at a specific time and a golfer’s new Handicap Index will be calculated ready for the following day. 

It is therefore important that a player submits their score as soon as possible on the day of play, after completion of their round and before midnight (local time).

Golfers must input their gross score for every hole played. If a golfer’s score is not submitted on the day of play it will not be used in the Playing Conditions Calculation.

A golfer will be able to view their new Handicap Index on the Scottish Golf Platform (via the Scottish Golf Website or App) or through their own golf club.


Under WHS, one of the key aims is to provide golfers with more opportunities to submit counting scores.  

Some of the factors that will mean a score is considered acceptable for handicapping purposes, as outlined in the new Rules of Handicapping, include:

  • In an authorized format of play; (Strokeplay, Stableford and Par/Bogey).
  • Over a minimum number of holes, (9 for 9 holes and 10 for 18 holes) all scores will be scaled up into an 18-hole differential.
  • By the Rules of Golf.
  • With at least one other person.
  • On a course with a current Course Rating and Slope Rating. 
  • During an active season.
  • Certified in accordance with Rules of Handicapping

Players must pre-register their intent to submit a score in general play for handicap purposes. General play is a significant benefit under WHS, allowing golfers to, so long as they pre-register and play the game by the WHS requirements, submit any round of golf from any golf course on the globe.  This is a massive opportunity for golfers who wish to consume their golf this way all year round and opens up new opportunities to maintain and obtain a handicap. General play scores can be submitted directly through the Scottish Golf App.

Such pre-registration must be made before the player starts the round, and in the manner prescribed by the Handicap Committee or Scottish Golf.

To find out more about the key features of WHS, click here.